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Help me decide on my next cartridge (<$900)

They say that rule #1 of owning a turntable is -

“Do not spend more on the cartridge than the table”.  So, we are talking about <$900.

That being said, this is my current setup:

  • Parasound Halo Integrated amp
  • Pro-ject Debut Carbon Esprit DC turntable
  • Ortofon 2M Blue MM cartridge
  • Vandersteen 2Ce Signature II speakers
I like the 2M blue, but it’s getting up there in listening hours, and it’s the only cartridge that this turntable has had; so I don’t know what I’m missing by moving up.
I would appreciate any and all suggestions.

clipdin
clipdin OP
15 posts
 
SOTA Comet V?
tablejockey
4,403 posts
 
This question can go in a couple  directions.

Your equipment appears solid. A phonostage isn't listed, so an onboard?

If you're  eventually going to get "serious" about playing records, a proper phonostage will allow you to hear the potential of your Pro-ject/cart.

That $900 would go further considering a used unit, and have something leftover for a nicer cart. Just upgrading the phonostage with the stock cart, it will likely sound more convincing than it does now.


mijostyn's avatar
mijostyn
8,570 posts
 
Or the Moonbeam 4, But the Comet is a significant improvement if you can stretch for it. Down the line you can even trade it in for a higher model if you like. Great product, great company.
mulveling's avatar
mulveling
2,451 posts
 
Agree that SOTA tables are a solid choice, and will get your out of disposable-turntable hell. You really want a Sapphire or Nova, though ;)
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